Crispy air fryer Brussels sprouts (oil free option) (2024)

Perfect, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside air fryer Brussels sprouts are easy to make and delicious, with or without oil.

This easy Brussels sprouts recipe is one of my favorite ways to use my air fryer! Brussels sprouts cook up like a dream in the air fryer in half the time that it takes to roast them in the oven.

Want to make this a meal? Check out my air fryer sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. It uses this as the base recipe and adds tender sweet potato, your whole grain of choice, and lemon tahini sauce for a quick lunch or dinner that's super satisfying.

Tips for perfectly crispy results

You have some options when you're making this recipe, and this section includes tips on how to get the best results.

To make perfect air fryer Brussels sprouts, it's crucial that you slice your sprouts into ¼" thick pieces. This thin width helps them cook faster and increases surface area, which lets them get even crispier on the outside.

Do you need to soak them before cooking?

You have the option to soak your Brussels sprouts before you cook them in your air fryer.

If you prefer softer Brussels sprouts, soak the slices in water for 10 minutes. Then, drain them, pat them dry, and proceed with the recipe below.

Because Brussels sprouts have so many layers, soaking gets water inside the veggies, so they are basically steaming as they air fry, softening the middles more.

Whether you need to soak or not is up to you! I prefer a bit more texture, so I usually skip the soaking.

Halving or multiplying the recipe

If you want to make Brussels sprouts for one in your air fryer, you can halve this recipewith no problems. It works like a charm!

Your Brussels may cook more quickly in a less-crowded basket, so just keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking.

You can also double the recipe and still cook everything up in one batch, but if you want to make more than twice as many, I'd definitely do this in batches.

If you crowd your Brussels sprouts in the basket, the ones in the middle won't get crispy. Because a crowded basket can hinder air circulation, doubling the recipe may mean it takes longer to cook.

If the Brussels sprouts in the middle of the basket aren't to your liking when doubling this recipe, give the basket a thorough shake. Then, cook for 1-2 minutes at a time, shaking each time you stop, until they're all cooked through.

How to make Brussels sprouts in the air fryer

Like I said above, this is my absolute favorite way to make Brussels sprouts! It's fast and flavorful, and the texture is perfection.

Measure out two cups of the sliced Brussels. You can opt to soak them in water for 10 minutes at this point, if you want them softer. If you soak, just drain them and pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cooking.

Now, toss them with oil, balsamic vinegar, and salt, making sure all of the Brussels sprouts get coated in the seasonings.

Air fry, shaking once, and you've got perfect Brussels sprouts in under 15 minutes!

How to make them oil-free

I see you, oil-free friends! You can make these Brussels sprouts oil-free with just one small tweak.

When I first shared that I was working on this recipe on Instagram, someone asked about ditching the oil, so I tested an oil free version for you, as well.

It's easy! Just replace the tablespoon of oil with a tablespoon of maple syrup, and you're in business.

I can't promise that oil free air fryer Brussels sprouts will be exactly as crispy as if you use oil, but I can guarantee that they will be delicious.

How to serve

Serve these up as a side dish with your favorite plant-based protein and a starch. They're terrific with BBQ Tofu and my cauliflower mashed potatoes or with beans and rice or quinoa.

Need to add some oomph to your next salad? Air fryer Brussels sprouts to the rescue! Check them out in this warm Brussels sprout salad.

I've also been tossing them with cooked pasta, a bit of olive oil, and sautéed peppers and onions for a quick, easy, and freaking delicious pasta dish. Even my kid loves it! "Dad! Try this pasta! It's SO GOOD!" he said. And my heart grew three sizes.

You can also pile these crispy Brussels sprouts on top of a grain bowl, if that's more your speed. Start with quinoa, rice, or any other whole grain. Then add beans, tofu, or nuts/seeds. I like to top off this kind of bowl with a great sauce, like my blender coconut curry sauce.

How to store them

If you do have any leftovers, they will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. You can serve leftovers warm or cold.

To reheat, either pop them into the microwave or the air fryer. In the air fryer, you can reheat these at 350° F for five to seven minutes, and they'll get crispy again!

📖 Recipe